A Chasidic village in New York has been invaded by a convoy of bikers offering support for a man who suffered severe burns to more than half of his body in what police said was a religiously-motivated arson attack.

Aron Rottenberg, a Chasidic father-of-four, was attacked by a teenage follower of Rabbi David Twersky,
the grand rebbe of the Skver Chasidic sect.

Mr Rottenberg had previously been sent death threats for his decision to leave the tight-knit New Square community.

His friend, Izzy Landau, called on the motorcyclists to visit New Square in order to raise funds for Mr Rottenberg's treatment and show the community that conformity was not the only option.

"I want people to know there is a world out there.

"You can be a Jew and pray and send your children to school where you please without getting persecuted," he said.